Search - Claude Debussy, Michael Tilson Thomas, Pierre Boulez :: Debussy's Greatest Hits

Probably the best compilation of a single composer's works.

G. Stewart | Chesapeake, VA USA | 05/05/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Claude Debussy is perhaps the most understated composer in the history of man. His ability to compose both on the piano and for orchestra is unmatched, in my humble opinion. The fact that Debussy was able to also arrange many contemporary and previous composers' works just adds to his resume. He had a gift, pure and simple.



Although this album doesn't (well, honestly it couldn't) contain all the best of Debussy's catalog (you would need his entire catalog), it does certainly contain some of his best work. The entire CD is a beautifully aranged, beautifully played, well recorded compilation with good sound mixing and it is a respectful tribute to a truly great composer.



"Clair de Lune" is perhaps one of the most gorgeous pieces of music ever composed; this is the orchestrated version, but the piano version is nice if you get the chance to listen to it (I recommend the entire suite, Suite Bergamasque, for any piano lover, but I digress). "Arabesque No. 1" is superb. "Fetes" is both haunting and airy. "Reverie" is the best piano piece I have ever heard. "The Girl with the Flaxen Hair" is also a wonderful piano piece. "The Sunken Cathedral" is dark and mysterious, a true wonder.



The rest of the album is fantastic. Listed above are just my top, personal favorites from the disc. I listen to this CD at least once a week, but often more. It is perfect for relaxation, for listening while reading, or for my personal favorite use, to block out noise while I am writing.



I would recommend this to any classical lover. If you have not heard Debussy's music, you must get this CD; it will have you ordering more of his compositions almost immediately. The man was a genius.



I would also add that if you enjoy this, you should continue your Debussy experience with the following: Orchestral Works I and Orchestral Works II; Thibaudet Complete Debussy Piano, Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 or Pascal Roge's Preludes, Debussy II and Debussy III; and finally, Complete Chamber Music. All of these discs are excellent and I highly recommend each to grow a Debussy collection.



Enjoy!!!"

Wonderful examples of debussy's music

Mishael Austin | Kentucky, USA | 08/21/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The music and recording quality are excellent. The only disappointment for me was the exclusion of "Nocturne No. 1- Nuages." I would recommend this for anyone as a general introduction to Debussy's music."

Essential Debussy CD

Christine H. | Chicago, IL | 05/29/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you only get one Debussy CD, or are new to Debussy (like I was when I bought it) get this one! Even though I was hoping Girl with the Flaxen Hair would be performed with more than just a piano, it still sounds beautiful, as does Claire de Lune, which is (thankfully) played by an orchestra. (the other version I have of Claire de Lune is performed with a piano alone, which didn't seem to do the song justice) I get completely lost in La Mer and Prelude..., and I can't help but smile every time I hear Golliwog's.. (which is also a charming recording). Definitely pick this one up!"